Chocolate Chia Pudding is the perfect healthy treat that satisfies your sweet cravings while offering a boost of nutrition. This plant-based, nutrient-packed pudding is rich in omega-3s, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s a quick and easy recipe to prepare, simply blending the ingredients together and allowing them to chill overnight for a delicious, creamy breakfast or dessert.

This indulgent yet wholesome pudding is naturally sweetened with maple syrup and made extra chocolatey with unsweetened cocoa powder. You can also top it with fresh fruit, shaved chocolate, or plant-based yogurt to elevate the flavors even further. Make it ahead for a quick breakfast or dessert that’s ready to enjoy whenever you need a healthy, satisfying snack.

Chocolate Chia Pudding

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Chia Pudding combines the rich, decadent flavor of chocolate with the health benefits of chia seeds. The pudding is thickened naturally by the chia seeds, providing you with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a nutritious breakfast or snack that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Plus, with minimal prep time and the convenience of overnight chilling, it’s a perfect make-ahead recipe that’s ideal for busy mornings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups plant-based milk (about 480 ml)
½ cup chia seeds (about 74 g)
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (about 21 g)
¼ cup maple syrup (about 85 g)
1 tsp vanilla extract or paste

For serving:

Plant-based yogurt (optional)
Shaved dark chocolate (optional)
Raspberries (optional)

Directions

In a blender, combine plant-based milk, chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend on high for about 10–15 seconds until smooth and well combined.
Pour the mixture evenly into 4 jars or small bowls.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight, to allow the chia seeds to thicken the pudding.
Once set, top with plant-based yogurt, shaved dark chocolate, and fresh raspberries if desired.
Enjoy chilled as a nutritious breakfast or a healthy dessert.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chilling Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Variations

Banana Chocolate: Blend in a banana before chilling for extra creaminess and natural sweetness.
Nut Butter: Stir in some almond butter or peanut butter for a rich, nutty flavor.
Tropical Twist: Top with coconut yogurt and sliced tropical fruits like mango and pineapple.
Nutty Topping: Add crushed nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts for added crunch.
Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a minty chocolate twist.

Storage/Reheating

Chocolate Chia Pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer a slightly thinner consistency, simply stir in a little more plant-based milk before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of plant-based milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk for plant-based milk if you prefer. The recipe works well with cow’s milk, almond milk, or oat milk.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

You can substitute maple syrup with other sweeteners such as agave nectar, honey, or stevia. Just adjust the quantity according to your preferred sweetness level.

How long does the chia pudding need to chill?

The pudding needs to chill for at least 3 hours, but it’s best to refrigerate it overnight for the perfect consistency.

Can I make this pudding without a blender?

Yes, you can whisk the ingredients by hand if you don’t have a blender. Just make sure to whisk thoroughly to ensure the chia seeds and cocoa powder are fully incorporated.

Can I add protein powder to the pudding?

Yes, you can stir in your favorite protein powder for an extra protein boost. Make sure to adjust the liquid content if necessary to maintain the pudding’s consistency.

Can I use cocoa nibs instead of cocoa powder?

Cocoa nibs will give a crunchy texture but won’t provide the same smooth chocolatey taste as cocoa powder. You could try a combination of both if you want the best of both worlds.

How can I make this pudding more decadent?

For a richer, more indulgent pudding, use full-fat coconut milk or add a spoonful of coconut cream to the mixture.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, this Chocolate Chia Pudding is a healthy and fun treat for kids! You can adjust the sweetness level and top it with their favorite fruits for added appeal.

Can I make this recipe without maple syrup?

Yes, you can replace the maple syrup with other natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or dates. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor.

How can I make this recipe nut-free?

If you need to make this recipe nut-free, simply use a nut-free plant-based milk such as oat milk or rice milk. Also, be sure to choose nut-free toppings.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chia Pudding is a healthy and indulgent treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a light dessert. Packed with nutrients from chia seeds and free from refined sugars, this pudding offers a rich chocolate flavor without the guilt. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and can be made ahead of time for busy mornings. Whether you enjoy it with toppings like fresh fruit, yogurt, or dark chocolate, this pudding is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.